Victor Wembanyama is Enlightened

Why I'd Risk My Life For Wemby

Good morning, and I’m sorry, but I lied on Monday. I planned on including a few of these upcoming thoughts in the previous newsletter, but got carried away with all of the new faces in their new places. What I was going to talk about was my undying love for the number 1 pick. Later realizing a more focused piece would be more fitting, we’ve come to this morning. Let’s get right into it.

I struggled to find a starting spot with Wemby. His length, athleticism, defense, etc. will never not wow me, make me jump out of my seat. Still, it’s the person he is that impresses me most. After listening to his first podcast appearance — where he spoke in his second language — I’m convinced he’s the best prospect in sports history by a sizable margin.

‘I think he’s the first 19 year old to find enlightenment.’

- JJ Redick on Victor Wembanyama on Podcast (Old Man & The Three)

The enlightened one in question.

Typically, I’d write this off as JJ overhyping his guests per usual, but I stand corrected. Wemby sounds like a 10 year vet who has learned to process his experiences and find himself outside of basketball’. More than anything though, I find his unwavering confidence to be the game-changer.

It doesn’t matter what question you ask him. There’s no pressure, there’s no fear. He refuses to leave anything to chance. Whether it’s training, sleep, practice schedule, diet, etc., there’s a plan and he believes in it. Without question, I believe he’ll stick to it and become what we were all terrified he might years ago.

‘Playing basketball is my job.’

I found another reason to be inspired by Victor. Most young guys don’t see this, or if they do, it takes them years to figure out. Translating this to the actual game, Wemby feels more NBA ready. Playing a safer style of basketball, risk-averse or injury-avoidant, can extend careers multiple extra seasons.

He’ll have things to learn, and a body to fill out in, but I have no doubt he’ll do it quickly. Injuries are the only thing I can see taking Wemby out of the left lane.

The on-court experience is going to be fun to watch next season. My only request from the Spurs is to keep the requests to a minimum. Not in terms of complexity though, Victor’s proven his IQ lies far above most and he thrives because of it. Instead, let the team play free. San Antonio does a great job requesting purpose while rewarding patience. Emphasizing the same is exactly what Victor Wembanyama needs.

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